Da Rae Jung

This place has A+ customer service. My friend and I were looking for late night Korean restaurants and trekked out to Da Rae Jung... 20 minutes before closing. We were both very worried -- my friend said it was unlikely they would even serve us since it was almost closing time, but when we walked in, we were warmly greeted by the couple who owned the place. About three other tables were filled when we entered, too -- the restaurant clearly was very open to serve people despite the time. This alone made us feel excited.

After we ordered, the man came out a few minutes later and gave us a pancake dish. I looked at him quizzically, saying, "Oh, sorry, we didn't order that."
He smiled and said brightly, "It's for free!"

I almost shed a tear in awe at their hospitality.

(As I whispered to my friend,  "maybe it's laced, or leftovers." I'm just cynical though -- it was pretty good, though I prefer Chinese green-onion pancakes.)

The food was delicious, but I think what we loved most was the service.
We ordered a bibimbop for me, & cow tail soup for my friend.

There were no problems except for the cow tail soup wasn't the best -- the broth seemed like it wasnt prepared correctly. It was unsalted and devoid of taste. We added a little salt and it tasted the same. We literally salted it 10 more times and it tasted just slightly better.

But overall, we loved it. The place is very casual and traditional. If you're looking for a place that is a romantic setting it is missing its candles and mood-lighting. But I have been pretty unimpressed by the Korean food in Chicago, being from the west coast. I enjoyed Da Rae Jung. The side dishes were A+, and the bibimbop too, and I definitely will go back.

Spouse and I love this place. We go every couple of weeks. Truly a hole in the wall, but you can tell they thrive on a regular clientele, mostly Korean, and the sajang-nim (owner) is about the sweetest guy in Chicago. Recently took a friend from Korea, curious as to his opinion and what he would order. He ordered his favorite, pork bone soup for us both, and when I asked him to rate it 1-10 he said "In Korea, 8. In America, 10." I couldn't have said it better. Never had a bad experience.
Its BYOB, with a liquor store right next door.

really really love this place!! minor communication issue, but pics on menu and wall make it easy, if intimidating to the uninitiated. Super nice people work there - food great, came quickly and deliciously! love, love love!!